Today we’d like to introduce you to Jillian James.
Hi Jillian, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started my entrepreneurial journey back in 2006 as an event planner. I enjoyed using my creativity to bring other people’s vision to life. As most beginners in entrepreneurship, I experienced many ups and downs trying to find my perfect niche. In 2012, I decided to move on from event planning to branding. I joined a women’s organization to assist with their events, yet my business knowledge and creative mind led me to helping other entrepreneurs Blaze their Brand. I hosted meetings, workshops, and one on one services where I assisted entrepreneurs in understanding and creating a brand for their business that aligned with their authentic self. During this time, over the years, I was the go-to gal for their styling needs. I always had an eye for fashion and creating the perfect look for the occasion.
In 2020, Slayed by Jade was born. I realized there was a gap in fashion and branding for entrepreneurs. Many would show up for photoshoots and events in formal or business casual attire that just did not fit their brand. Seeing an artist, MUA, or beautician in an all-black suit just did not make sense to their brand when formal attire was not required. I took courses in fashion and personal styling to get a better understanding of different cultures and the history of specific looks. I learned more about matching specific colors with skin tones and how to properly match certain pieces with a specific body type. Throughout the process, I styled entrepreneurs for photoshoots and events. Within the year, I also added personal virtual styling that helped others, not only entrepreneurs to find their style, get the most from their wardrobe, and create their fashion with a purpose. At Slayed by Jade, you don’t have to wear a suit to mean business.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to getting where I am today was definitely a challenge. The classes I took to become more educated and an expert in my field were fun and worth it, but it definitely made me think outside of the box. When pivoting and rebranding a business, you also have to build up your niche all over again. My audience was used to seeing business and branding tips in my content. Then BOOM! Fashion. Putting the two together wasn’t easy but I made it make sense.
In order to do this, I had to take my business seriously and invest in a marketing coach. Someone who has been in my shoes as an entrepreneur, scaled their business to six figures, and was also transparent and relatable. Thanks to Melanie Druery Allen, CEO of Hype Marketing House. She got me and my business all the way together.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I help entrepreneurs match their personal style with their brand. I specialize in creating fashionable, trendy looks that make sense for my clients as well as looks great with their body type. As well as providing lifestyle tips and showcasing great products from other businesses that match what my audience likes to see. I’m most proud of customer and client reviews that share how I was a part of making them feel confident in their style. Slayed by Jade is different from other stylists as I focus on business and personal attire but you don’t have to wear a suit to mean business.
What do you think about luck?
Personally, I don’t believe in luck of any kind. What’s for you is for you. What happens in our lives has already been ordered by God. We hit milestones and obstacles, all due to what we put in to the situations that arise in our lives. We all have a purpose and should live in that. Sometimes it takes some of us longer than others to find it, but when we do, nothing can stop us. But if my grandmother was still living, she would tell you since my birthday is 7/7, I’m full of luck.
Contact Info:
- Email: jillian@yourstylistjade.com
- Website: https://yourstylistjade.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourstylistjade
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/slayedbyjadebrandingstylist
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC-zIvjx_vUFS99VqwdAc9fw
Image Credits
Henry Carter
